The East African Community (EAC) has a new leader at its helm: Ambassador Stephen Patrick Mbundi of Tanzania has been appointed as the Secretary General of the regional bloc.
The announcement came from the Tanzania’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs and East African Cooperation on Saturday in Arusha, following the 25th Ordinary Summit of EAC Heads of State. Mbundi succeeds Kenya’s Veronica Mueni Nduva and will serve a five-year term, guiding the Community through its ongoing integration efforts.
The Tanzanian government expressed strong support for the appointment. In an official press release.
“The Government of the United Republic of Tanzania warmly welcomes the appointment of Ambassador Stephen Patrick Mbundi as the new Secretary General of the East African Community (EAC),” said the statement.
Ambassador Mbundi brings extensive expertise to the role. Described as “a senior Tanzanian diplomat and government official with over 28 years of professional experience,” he previously served as Permanent Secretary in the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and East African Cooperation, where he was “responsible for East African Community affairs.”
In that capacity, “Ambassador Mbundi played a key policy and administrative role in Tanzania’s foreign relations, particularly in matters related to regional integration and cooperation within the EAC.” He “frequently represented Tanzania in high-level international and regional meetings” and collaborated closely with EAC organs, institutions, development partners, and the private sector.
The release highlighted his deep involvement in advancing the EAC’s core goals: “Ambassador Mbundi has worked with various EAC organs and institutions, development partners, and private sector organizations to advance regional integration. He has also engaged extensively with counterparts from EAC Partner States to discuss and resolve issues hampering free movement of trade and persons.”
It added that “Ambassador Mbundi has a long-standing history with the EAC integration agenda and brings renewed impetus to the Community.”
The appointment marks a significant moment for the EAC, which comprises eight Partner States and continues to prioritize deeper economic, political, and social ties among East Africans. Mbundi’s proven track record in diplomacy and regional affairs positions him well to address challenges such as trade barriers, infrastructure development, and enhanced cooperation in a rapidly evolving region.
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